AL-KARKH UNIVERSITY
ENGINEERING DRAWING
Scale
By
Ibrahim Maher Muhsin
Civil engineering
First Class
1. Introduction
Scale is a fundamental concept in engineering drawing that allows objects to
be represented at sizes different from their actual dimensions. Since most
engineering components are either too large or too small to draw at full size,
scaling provides a standardized method to reduce or enlarge drawings while
maintaining accurate proportions and geometric relationships.
Scale is defined as the ratio between the linear dimension of the drawing and
the actual dimension of the object.
2. Mathematical Definition
The scale is expressed as:
Or alternatively:
Where the drawing dimension is compared to the actual object dimension.
3. Types of Scales
3.1 Full Size Scale (1:1)
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3.2 Reduction Scales
Used when the object is larger than the drawing paper:
Formula:
3.3 Enlargement Scales
Used when the object is smaller than practical drawing size:
Formula:
4. Standard Paper Sizes and Scale Selection
Standard ISO paper sizes used in engineering:
Selection Criteria:
- Choose scale so the drawing fits comfortably on the paper
- Maintain minimum 10mm margin around all edges
- Use largest practical scale for clarity
5. Scale Rules (Measuring Instruments)
5.1 Triangular Scale Rule
Features:
- Three-sided with six different scales
- Common combinations: 1:1, 1:2, 1:5, 1:10, 1:20, 1:50
- Eliminates calculation errors
Advantages:
- Quick, direct measurement
- No mathematical conversion needed
- Reduces human error
5.2 Flat Scale Rule
Features:
- Two-sided, typically with 2-4 scales
- More compact than triangular
- Often used for architectural work
6. Methods of Scaling
6.1 Direct Method (Using Scale Rule)
Procedure:
1. Identify the required scale on the scale rule
2. Place scale rule on drawing
3. Read measurement directly
4. Mark points and draw lines
Advantage: Fast, no calculations required
6.2 Calculation Method
Procedure:
1. Determine scale ratio
2. Calculate: Drawing Size = Actual Size × Scale Factor
3. Use standard ruler to measure calculated dimension
Example:
- Actual dimension: 150mm
- Scale: 1:5
- Drawing dimension: 150 ÷ 5 = 30mm
6.3 Diagonal Method (Graphical Scaling)
Construction:
1. Draw a right triangle with base = 1 unit, height = 1 unit
2. Divide vertical side into desired subdivisions
3. Draw horizontal lines from division points to hypotenuse
4. Project vertically to base for precise measurements
Application: When high precision is required for small fractions
7. Dimensioning Scaled Drawings
7.1 Important Rule
> "Always dimension the ACTUAL SIZE, not the scaled size"
Example:
- Drawing scale: 1:2
- Actual hole diameter: 20mm
- Drawing shows: 10mm circle
- Dimension text reads: 20 (not 10)
8. Types of Scales in Engineering Practice
8.1 Engineer's Scale
- Based on decimal system (1:10, 1:20, 1:30, 1:40, 1:50, 1:60)
- Used for mechanical and civil engineering
8.2 Metric Scale
- Standard international system
- Ratios: 1:1, 1:2, 1:5, 1:10, 1:20, 1:50, 1:100, 1:200, 1:500, 1:1000
8.3 Architect's Scale
- Based on feet and inches
- Common ratios: 1/4, 1/2, 1/8, etc.
9. Practical Applications
9.1 Choosing the Right Scale
Considerations:
10. Common Errors and Corrections
11. Practical Exercises
Exercise 1: Grid Patterns
- Draw squares at various scales
- Practice measurement and line work
- Dimensions: 80×80mm, with subdivisions at 5, 10, 20mm
Exercise 2: Pattern Scaling
- Create geometric patterns using scaled measurements
- Practice hatching at different scales
- Maintain consistent line weights
Exercise 3: Circular Features
- Draw concentric circles at 5mm intervals
- Practice center line placement
- Apply proper dimensioning
12. Summary
Scale is essential for practical engineering drawing, enabling representation of
objects ranging from microscopic electronic components to massive civil
engineering structures. Proper understanding and application of scaling
principles ensures:
1. Clarity: Drawings are readable and unambiguous
2. Accuracy: Proportions are maintained correctly
3. Standardization: Universal understanding across engineering disciplines
4. Efficiency: Optimal use of drawing space
5. Manufacturability: Dimensions indicate true production sizes
The fundamental principle is that "the scale should be chosen to show the
object clearly with all necessary details while fitting Economically on the
selected paper size."